18th Century Colonial Peruvian Maguey Wood Virgin with Silver Crown

Details

Description

A striking Colonial Peruvian devotional sculpture depicting the Virgin of the Rosary, carved in maguey wood and presented with an … Read more A striking Colonial Peruvian devotional sculpture depicting the Virgin of the Rosary, carved in maguey wood and presented with an impressive antique silver crown and richly layered textiles. Created within the artistic traditions of the Andean world, the sculpture reflects the distinctive fusion of Spanish Baroque devotional models and local craftsmanship that characterized religious art in Colonial Peru. Particularly noteworthy is the use of maguey wood, a lightweight material traditionally employed in Andean sculpture and strongly associated with the religious imagery produced in Peru and the Cuzco region. The figure displays a serene and expressive face, glass eyes, delicately modelled hands and a commanding vertical presence. Its imposing silhouette is enhanced by elaborate period and later textiles, recreating the appearance these devotional images would have presented in churches, chapels and private oratories throughout the colonial period. The sculpture is accompanied by a substantial antique Peruvian silver crown featuring radiant motifs and repoussé decoration, an important element that significantly enhances the visual impact and devotional character of the ensemble. Over the course of its long devotional life, the figure has undergone historical restorations and adaptations, including later polychromy and interventions to the hands, feet and surface finish. These modifications are consistent with centuries of religious use and form part of the sculpture's history. The work is offered and valued as a historic devotional object rather than as an untouched colonial artifact. A highly decorative and visually compelling example of Colonial Andean religious art, suitable for collectors of Spanish Colonial, Latin American and ecclesiastical works. Dimensions Height: 120 cm (47.25 in.) Width: 38 cm (15 in.) Depth: 33 cm (13 in.) Condition Good condition consistent with age, devotional use and historical restorations. Later interventions, including repainting and restoration to various areas. Wear, age-related imperfections and restorations throughout. Antique silver crown with expected wear consistent with age. See less